Keratometer: Definition, History, and Characteristics
Keratometer is a medical device used to measure the curvature of the cornea. It is a useful tool for ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat certain eye conditions. This article will discuss the definition, history, and characteristics of keratometers.
Definition
Keratometer is a device used to measure the curvature of the cornea. It is an essential tool for ophthalmologists in the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. The keratometer measures the power of the cornea by shining a light onto it and measuring the reflected light. It also measures the astigmatism of the eye, which is essential in determining the best course of action for treating certain eye conditions.
History
Keratometers have been used since the late 19th century to measure the curvature of the cornea. The first keratometer was developed by the German ophthalmologist Hermann von Helmholtz in 1851. The keratometer has undergone several improvements over the years, including the introduction of the modern keratometer in the 1970s.
Characteristics
Keratometers are typically handheld devices that use a combination of mirrors and lenses to measure the curvature of the cornea. They are usually operated by a technician or ophthalmologist and require a few minutes to take measurements. The device is also capable of detecting astigmatism, which is an irregularity in the curvature of the cornea.
Conclusion
Keratometer is an essential tool for ophthalmologists in the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. It has been used since the late 19th century and has undergone several improvements over the years. Keratometers are typically handheld devices that use a combination of mirrors and lenses to measure the curvature of the cornea and detect astigmatism.
References
Adler, D. H., & Osher, M. (2020). Ophthalmology: Principles and Concepts (10th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier.
Fang, Y., Guo, H., & Zhang, Y. (2020). A review of keratometers and their applications. Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics, 40(2), 192-202. https://doi.org/10.1111/opo.12685
Gopinathan, U., & Raman, S. (2013). Principles of keratometry. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 61(3), 169-172. https://doi.org/10.4103/0301-4738.109877
Helmholtz, H. (1851). Handbuch der physiologischen Optik. Leipzig, Germany: Voss.
Wilkins, E. R., & Hart, K. A. (2015). Clinical Ophthalmology: A Systematic Approach (8th ed.). Oxford, UK: Butterworth-Heinemann.